How To Stop Your Dog from Shedding

We get asked a lot about shedding and keeping their dog from shedding so much at home. Here is the thing: shedding breeds will always shed! Sure, they may shed more in the spring and summer months, but they shed any season. Here are some truths and myths about shedding hair. Plus, we’ll list a few tips that may help with your furry frustrations. 

“All Dogs Shed Hair”

TRUE

While some dogs shed more hair than others, all dogs shed hair. Shedding is a natural process that helps to keep your dog’s coat healthy and free from dirt and debris. Shedding is also a way for them to control their body temperature in hot and cold months. If you notice your dog is shedding more hair than usual, it could be a sign of an underlying health condition and you should consult your veterinarian.

“Brushing Your Dog’s Hair Will Prevent Shedding”

FALSE

Brushing your dog’s hair will reduce shedding for sure, but brushing them once in a while will not prevent shedding. It is completely natural for dogs to shed all year long. It is up to the pet parent to manage the shedding at home with daily brushing using the correct tools with the correct techniques. More on that later!

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Dogs with Double Coats Shed More Than Those with Single Coats”

TRUE 

Dogs with double coats, such as Siberian Huskies, Samoyeds, and Golden Retrievers, shed more than those with single coats, such as Poodles and Shih Tzu. This is because double-coated dogs have two layers of hair - an outer layer of guard hairs and an inner layer of downy fur - that needs to be shed in order to keep the coat healthy and keep them cool in warmer months. 

So how can we take care of this hairy situation? We’ll give you a few quick tips:

1. Make sure you’re using the right tools at home. Many inexperienced dog owners opt for a soft pinned brush, but this will only take care of what’s on the surface. If you have a long-haired shedding dog such a Golden Retriever, you will need to use a slicker brush on the areas with longer fur such as the chest and rear. Removing any tangles or matting before more undercoat gets tangled in will prevent an unwanted shave-down at the groomers.

Next, you will need an undercoat rake. The long prongs on these rakes will get right down to the skin without hurting them and will remove the dead undercoat from the roots. Do not buy Furminators or any kind of blade for removing the undercoat. Improper use will only cause breakage in your dog’s fur and potentially remove their precious guard coat, which may or may not ruin their coat forever. 

2. Vacuum and remove dead hair from your furniture and carpets as often as possible. That’s pretty obvious to most, but we know a few clients who don’t clean up as often as they should. What they don’t realize is, all the shed fur accumulates quickly and makes it seem like their dog is shedding excessively. Regular cleaning at home may make you realize your dog isn’t shedding as much as you thought they were.

3. Shedding dogs need regular grooming; maybe even more frequently during spring and fall when their coat changes. Groomers use professional-grade shampoos, conditioners, treatments, and equipment to groom shedding breeds. There’s a lot that goes into their grooming compared to what can be done at home. Mainly, using a high-velocity dryer will remove any undercoat that can’t be removed with a brush or rake. After a thorough bath and blowout, your dog will feel so much softer and lighter!

If you follow the steps listed above, you and your dog will be on the path to a happier, less hairy life. And of course, regular visits to a professional groomer will also help reduce the amount of shedding at home. So if you’re looking for some help in conquering shedding dog hair, bring your pup in to see us. We’ll work our magic and have them looking (and feeling) their best in no time!